Used ECG Machines Compared: GE MAC 5500 vs Philips PageWriter vs Nihon Kohden (2026)

Used Philips PageWriter TC70 ECG machine for sale UK
At a glance
  • Used 12-lead ECG machines typically run £450–£650 — a fraction of new.
  • The big three: GE MAC 5500, Philips PageWriter (TC50/TC70), Nihon Kohden Cardiofax.
  • Check leads are included, the printer works, and the unit is tested.
  • Touchscreen vs keypad is mostly preference — both do a clinical 12-lead.

An ECG machine is a must-have in almost every clinical setting — GP surgeries, private clinics, cardiology, occupational health, even veterinary. New 12-lead systems are pricey, which is why a tested used machine is one of the smartest buys on the list. Here is how the big three brands compare, and what they cost right now.

The three names worth knowing

Ninety percent of the used ECG market is GE, Philips and Nihon Kohden. All three make excellent, hospital-grade 12-lead machines; the differences come down to interface, printer and what is included. All of these are in our used ECG & EKG machines collection — tap a photo to open the listing.

Used Philips PageWriter TC70 colour touchscreen ECG machine
Philips PageWriter TC70 (colour touchscreen) — £500. Tested & working, with a modern colour touchscreen interface.
Used GE MAC 5500 12-lead resting ECG machine with printer
GE MAC 5500 12-Lead Resting ECG — £550. An industry-standard resting ECG system with built-in printer.
Used Nihon Kohden Cardiofax M ECG-1350K EKG machine with trolley
Nihon Kohden Cardiofax M (ECG-1350K) — £500. Comes with leads and trolley — ready to roll into a clinic.

Which should you choose?

Honestly? For a standard resting 12-lead ECG, all three will serve you well for years. Pick on the details that matter to you: touchscreen (Philips PageWriter) vs keypad (GE MAC), whether a trolley or stand is included, and connectivity if you need to export to an EMR. Price is similar across the board, so buy the one that comes complete and tested.

What to check before you buy

Confirm the patient leads are included (buying these separately adds up), that the printer works and paper is a standard size, and that the machine has been tested. As always with used medical equipment, it is the buyer's responsibility to decontaminate, service and test before clinical use.

Not sure which ECG suits you?

Browse the used ECG & EKG machines collection, message us on WhatsApp at +44 7392369111, or use our contact page and we will help you pick.

This article is general guidance, not clinical or regulatory advice. Buyers are responsible for confirming a device's suitability, servicing and compliance for their intended use and location.